Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A comforting and cheesy bake that layers shredded chicken, corn tortillas, and rich red enchilada sauce. This easy casserole brings all the flavor of traditional enchiladas to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Perfect for a weeknight family meal.
For 6 servings
8 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- 2
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chicken filling
- a.Combine the shredded chicken, the cooked onion and garlic mixture, 1 cup of the enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- 4
Begin assembling the casserole
- a.Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the corn tortilla strips in a single layer over the sauce.
- 5
Create the first full layer
- a.Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla strips. Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce over the chicken layer.
- 6
Create the second layer
- a.Arrange the remaining tortilla strips on top, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring it's evenly covered.
- 7
Finish with cheese and bake
- a.Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the entire casserole. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
- 8
Rest and serve
- a.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture and to prevent soggy tortillas, lightly fry the corn tortilla strips in a little oil for 30 seconds per side before layering.
- 2Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe.
- 3Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial. It helps the layers set and prevents it from falling apart when you slice it.
- 4This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it but don't bake, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
- 5For a richer flavor, use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, and a little Cotija for topping.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the chicken with 2 cans (15 oz each) of black beans, rinsed and drained, and 1 cup of corn kernels. Proceed with the recipe as written.
Sauce SwapSauce Swap
Use green enchilada sauce (salsa verde) instead of red for a tangier, brighter flavor profile. It pairs wonderfully with chicken and cheese.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
Substitute the shredded chicken with 1.5 lbs of cooked ground beef (drained) or shredded pork carnitas for a different take on the classic.
Add Some HeatAdd Some Heat
For a spicier casserole, add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the chicken mixture or a finely diced jalapeño to the onions while sautéing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The shredded chicken provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full.
Rich in Calcium
With a generous amount of cheese, this casserole is a good source of calcium, a mineral vital for strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Contains Lycopene
The tomato-based red enchilada sauce is a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and is linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Chicken Enchilada Casserole contains approximately 580-650 calories, depending on the specific brands of sauce and cheese used.